JPII grad Wright to play football at Methodist University

Thursday

John Paul II Catholic School graduate Nyleem Wright will play football at NCAA Division III Methodist University, which competes in the USA South Atlantic Conference.

Wright, a Jasper County resident, played quarterback, receiver and defensive back for the Golden Warriors.

Wright, who also played basketball and soccer for the school, reflects on his time at John Paul II and looks ahead to playing at the next level.

Bluffton Today: Congratulations on committing to Methodist University. What attracted you to the school and why do you think it's a good fit for you?

Nyleem Wright: Thank you! Well I went up (to Fayetteville, N.C). for two visits. One in November and April. The visit in April was an official one where I got to see the weight room and meet the whole coaching staff. Receivers coach (Zach) Gordon really made the visit really fun. Everyone was polite and excited to have me on the campus. It just felt like a place where I needed to be: A second place I could call home. The coaches project that I play outside and slot receiver and option QB.

BT: What aspect of the team's style of play stands out the most to you and how do you think you can best utilize your skills in their system?

Wright: The team plays all types of formations. It’s mostly spread. But I think with the ball in my hands in space I can be electric. The coaches saw that in me, so they think I’ll be a great fit in the offense.

BT: What do you think you need to improve on to be ready to compete in college and how will you work this summer to improve?

Wright: I think my agility and speed needs a little more work. I train hard every day or every two days for a half-hour up to three hours.

BT: What subject do you plan to study in college and what career do you envision?

Wright: I plan to study business administration, but I’m thinking about changing it to business in sports management. I see myself in a field that includes all aspects of sports. Mostly a recruiting and finance coordinator.

BT: How did going to school and playing sports at John Paul II help prepare you for the next level?

Wright: Going to school at John Paul strongly helped me academically and athletically. The school really taught me the true meaning of faith, the true meaning in believing in God’s plan. That we are all called to be something great, but being there taught me that nothing was given. You had to earn every inch, whether it was in the classroom, on the court or field. Mostly, I bettered my work ethic.

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